Jerry Sandusky Found Guilty of Sexual Abuse

Updated at 12:48 am, June 23rd, 2012

Mark Wilson/Getty Images(BELLEFONTE, Pa.) — Former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky was found guilty on 45 of 48 counts of sexual abuse on Friday night.

Sandusky sexaully abused 10 boys over a span of 15 years, a move which tainted the Penn State image and left the University with no choice but to fire the late Joe Paterno. The charges carry a minimum 60-year sentence and 442 years at maximum.

“The Sandusky family is very disappointed by the verdict of the jury, but we respect their verdict,” defense lawyer Joe Amendola told reporters gathered outside. “It was the expected outcome because of the overwhelming evidence against Jerry Sandusky.”

The family of Paterno, who died exactly five months before Sandusky’s conviction, released a statement saying: “Although we understand the task of healing is just beginning, today’s verdict is an important milestone. The community owes a measure of gratitude to the jurors for their diligent service. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the victims and their families.”

Sandusky showed little emotion as the verdict was read, according to those inside the court room.